URGENT UPDATE: The No. 14 Texas Longhorns are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31, 2025, at 3 p.m. EST in Orlando. This high-stakes game comes at a pivotal moment as the Longhorns face significant roster changes.
Texas will head into this bowl game without several key players, including top rushers CJ Baxter and Tre Wisner, who have opted out due to transfers and NFL preparations. Adding to the turmoil, this will be the first game under head coach Steve Sarkisian without defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, who was dismissed earlier this month after a disappointing season that saw Texas miss the College Football Playoff for the first time in three years.
Newly appointed defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, a former Texas coach, steps into the role under intense scrutiny. His experience will be critical as the Longhorns look to solidify their defense against a formidable Wolverines offense.
In a reflective statement, Colin Simmons, All-American edge and sophomore, shared his feelings about the coaching change. “That one hurt a little bit. With PK being my coach coming in from high school, he put me in the right positions to make plays,” Simmons said. “But like Coach Nansen said, it’s a business.”
Fellow sophomore Ty Anthony Smith echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need to stay focused on the future despite the changes. “I wasn’t as happy when he left, but I understand he’ll go there and do great things,” Smith stated.
Co-defensive coordinator Johnny Nansen acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic. “They’re used to change. With guys opting out and coaching changes, it’s part of the business,” Nansen said. “Players have been great at handling it.”
Offensive coordinator Kyle Flood added that the situation presents an opportunity for younger players to step up. “There’s an exciting part where younger players get to expand their roles. It gives them a chance to impact the game and offers a glimpse of what’s coming in the future,” Flood said.
As the Longhorns prepare for this critical matchup in the Citrus Bowl, fans are eager to see how the team adapts to these challenges. The outcome could shape the trajectory of Texas football heading into the new year.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story.
